4 Reasons to Avoid DIY Car Brake Repairs

COME HERE, Car repairs are expensive. There’s no denying this fact. You also can’t avoid car repairs no matter how good of a driver you are or how well you maintain your vehicle. Sure, those two factors may keep major engine or transmission problems at bay, but eventually you’ll need regular maintenance services. In Newark, car brake repairs are a necessity for car owners who value safety while driving. These careful drivers consider brake repairs a maintenance service.


Many car owners attempt to save a few bucks by replacing their car brakes themselves. While this is an economical and convenient option, it’s not always the best idea. Before you jack your car up and dive into this DIY auto repair, ask yourself the following questions.

Do I Understand Basic Car Repair Mechanics?

Watching a YouTube video to help you replace the brakes to your 2011 Nissan Sentra may get you pointed in the right direction, but if you’ve never even so much as changed the windshield wiper fluid in your car why are you starting off with a major DIY car repair? It’s critical that you understand basic car repair mechanics and have the proper tools to complete the job safely. Don’t let how-to videos convince you that you can become a car mechanic overnight. It’s not realistic, and you could end up damaging your vehicle to the point where you won’t be able to avoid professional repair service.

Do You Have the Time to Change the Brakes?

If you’ve never changed brakes before, you may think that it only takes 30-60 minutes. That’s how long it takes the professionals, right? Well, again, the professionals have many years of experience and the proper tools to get the job done fast. One of the biggest mistakes car owners make is assuming that they’ll complete a car repair job in as little amount of time. Keep in mind that hanging brakes on a car that has never had the brakes changed will take longer because the nuts and bolts are still tightened to factory standards.

Are You Sure the Problem Is Faulty Brake Pads?

When a car owner hears squeaking or grinding after applying the brakes, he or she automatically assumes the brake pads are worn. If you’ve never replaced the pads before, this could very well be the case. However, it’s not always the reason for these sounds. Your car’s rotors may need to be turned or they may have worn down to the point they need to be replaced. These are brake repair jobs that should always be done in a shop by a qualified mechanic.
Other reasons for noises made when brakes are applied could any of the following:

• Bad tires
• Poor wheel alignments
• Low brake fluid

Why spend all that time replacing your brake pads if that’s not even the problem in the first place?

Have You Shopped Around for Discounts?

The #1 reason car owners attempt brake repairs themselves is savings. But, did you know, that many car repair shops offer discounts on brake repairs? In many cases, you can get the pads replaced in about 60 minutes for as little as $90- $120 dollars. Many auto repair shops advertise specials online or in the newspaper. Keep an eye out for these specials to save money. Some shops will even include an oil change with this package.

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